Deployment mechanisms for surgical instruments

ABSTRACT

A surgical instrument includes a housing, an energizable member, and a deployment mechanism. The deployment mechanism includes a one-way rotatable member, a linkage, and an actuator. The first end of the linkage is coupled to the one-way rotatable member at an offset position. The second end of the linkage is coupled to the energizable member such that a revolution of the one-way rotatable member moves the energizable member from the storage position to the deployed condition and back to the storage position. The actuator is selectively actuatable from an un-actuated state to an actuated state. Each actuation of the actuator effects a partial revolution of the one-way rotatable member such that each actuation of the actuator moves the energizable member from one of the storage position or the retracted position to the other of the storage position or the retracted positions.

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/051,389, U.S. Provisional Application No.62/051,391, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/051,394, all ofwhich were filed on Sep. 17, 2014. The entire contents of each of theabove provisional applications are incorporated herein by reference.This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/802,369, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/802,423, both ofwhich were filed on Jul. 17, 2015.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to surgical instruments and, moreparticularly, to deployment mechanisms for deploying, e.g., actuating,one or more components of a surgical instrument.

Background of Related Art

Many surgical instruments include one or more movable handles, levers,actuators, triggers, etc. for actuating and/or manipulating one or morefunctional components of the surgical instrument. For example, asurgical forceps may include a movable handle that is selectivelycompressible relative to a stationary handle for moving first and secondjaw members of the forceps between spaced-apart and approximatedpositions for grasping tissue therebetween. Such a forceps may furtherinclude a trigger for selectively deploying a knife between the jawmembers to cut tissue grasped therebetween.

As can be appreciated, as additional functional components are added tothe surgical instrument, additional deployment structures or deploymentstructures capable of actuating more than one component are required.However, multiple deployment structures and/or combined deploymentstructures may be limited by spatial constraints within the housing ofthe surgical instrument, functional constraints of the components (e.g.,where a combined deployment structure imparts additional forcerequirements for deploying one or more of the components coupledthereto), and/or may overly complicate the operable components of thesurgical instrument.

SUMMARY

As used herein, the term “distal” refers to the portion that is beingdescribed that is further from a user, while the term “proximal” refersto the portion that is being described that is closer to a user.Further, to the extent consistent, any of the aspects described hereinmay be used in conjunction with any of the other aspects describedherein.

In accordance with the present disclosure, a surgical instrument isprovided including a housing, an energizable member, and a deploymentmechanism. The energizable member is movable relative to the housingbetween a storage position and a deployed position. The deploymentmechanism is coupled to the housing and the energizable member and isconfigured to selectively move the energizable member between thestorage position and the deployed position. The deployment mechanismincludes a one-way rotatable member, a linkage, and an actuator. Theone-way rotatable member is coupled to the housing and is rotatablerelative to the housing about one or more pivots. The linkage has afirst end and a second end. The first end of the linkage is coupled tothe one-way rotatable member at a position offset from the pivot(s) andthe second end of the linkage is coupled to the energizable member suchthat a revolution of the one-way rotatable member about the pivot(s)moves the energizable member from the storage position to the deployedcondition and back to the storage position. The actuator is disposed onthe housing and is coupled to the one-way rotatable member. The actuatoris selectively actuatable from an un-actuated state to an actuatedstate. Each actuation of the actuator effects a partial revolution ofthe one-way rotatable member such that each actuation of the actuatormoves the energizable member from its current position, e.g., thestorage position or the retracted position, to the other of the storageposition or the retracted positions.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, the deployment mechanism furtherincludes a biasing member configured to bias the actuator towards theun-actuated state.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the actuator is engagedwith the one-way rotatable member during actuation of the actuator toeffect rotation of the one-way rotatable member. On the other hand, theactuator is disengaged from the one-way rotatable member during returnof the actuator from the actuated state to the un-actuated state suchthat the one-way rotatable member is maintained in position duringreturn of the actuator.

In still another aspect of the present disclosure, the one-way rotatablemember includes a ratchet wheel having a plurality of teethcircumferentially disposed about an outer periphery thereof and theactuator includes a rack having a plurality of teeth extendinglongitudinally therealong. In such aspects, the teeth of the rack may beconfigured to engage the teeth of the ratchet wheel upon actuation ofthe actuator from the actuated state to the un-actuated state and to camabout the teeth of the ratchet wheel upon return of the actuator fromthe actuated state to the un-actuated state.

In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the one-way rotatablemember includes a conveyor belt rotatable about a pair of spaced-apartpivots. The belt includes a plurality of fingers disposed thereon andthe actuator includes a shaft having one or more fingers extendingtherefrom. In such aspects, the one or more fingers of the shaftincludes a hinged portion configured to engage one of the plurality offingers of the belt upon actuation of the actuator from the actuatedstate to the un-actuated state. On the other hand, the hinged portion ofthe one or more fingers of the shaft is configured to pivot out of theway of the plurality of fingers of the belt upon return of the actuatorfrom the actuated state to the un-actuated state.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, a full revolution of theone-way rotatable member moves the energizable member from the storageposition to the deployed condition and back, and each actuation of theactuator effects a one-half revolution of the one-way rotatable membersuch that each actuation of the actuator moves the energizable memberfrom one of the storage position or the retracted position to the other.

In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an insulative member isprovided that moves with the energizable member and relative to thehousing between the storage position and the deployed position. In suchaspects, the deployment mechanism is configured to selectively move boththe energizable member and insulative member between the storageposition and the deployed position.

Another surgical instrument provided in accordance with aspects of thepresent disclosure includes a housing, a shaft extending distally fromthe housing, an end effector assembly disposed at a distal end of theshaft, a deployable assembly including an energizable member and aninsulative member, and a deployment mechanism. The deployable assemblyis movable relative to the end effector assembly between a storageposition and a deployed position. The deployment mechanism is coupled tothe housing and the deployable assembly and is configured to selectivelymove the deployable assembly between the storage position and thedeployed position. The deployment mechanism may include any of thefeatures of any or all of the aspects detailed above.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, the end effector assemblyincludes first and second jaw members configured to treat tissue in abipolar mode of operation. Additionally or alternatively, in thedeployed position, the insulative member may be disposed about the jawmembers with the energizable member extending distally from the jawmembers for treating tissue in a monopolar mode of operation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various aspects of the present disclosure are described herein withreference to the drawings wherein like reference numerals identifysimilar or identical elements:

FIG. 1 is a front, perspective view of an endoscopic surgical forcepsconfigured for use in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged, front, perspective view of an end effectorassembly of the forceps of FIG. 1, wherein jaw members of the endeffector assembly are disposed in a spaced-apart position and wherein amonopolar assembly is disposed in a storage condition;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged, front, perspective view of the end effectorassembly of FIG. 2, wherein the jaw members are disposed in anapproximated position and wherein the monopolar assembly is disposed inthe storage condition;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged, front, perspective view of the end effectorassembly of FIG. 2, wherein the jaw members are disposed in theapproximated position and wherein the monopolar assembly istransitioning from the storage condition to a deployed condition;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged, front, perspective view of the end effectorassembly of FIG. 2, wherein the monopolar assembly is disposed in thedeployed condition;

FIG. 6 is a side view of the proximal end of the forceps of FIG. 1 witha portion of the housing and internal components thereof removed tounobstructively illustrate the proximal end of the monopolar assemblyand a deployment mechanism for deploying the monopolar assembly;

FIG. 7A is a side view of the deployment mechanism of FIG. 6 and theproximal end of the monopolar assembly, wherein the deployment mechanismis disposed in an un-actuated condition corresponding to the storagecondition of the monopolar assembly;

FIG. 7B is a side view of the deployment mechanism of FIG. 6 and theproximal end of the monopolar assembly, wherein the deployment mechanismis disposed in an actuated condition corresponding to the deployedcondition of the monopolar assembly;

FIG. 8A is a side view of another deployment mechanism provided inaccordance with the present disclosure and shown coupled to the proximalend of the monopolar assembly, wherein the deployment mechanism isdisposed in an un-actuated condition corresponding to the storagecondition of the monopolar assembly;

FIG. 8B is a side view of the deployment mechanism of FIG. 8A and theproximal end of the monopolar assembly, wherein the deployment mechanismis disposed in an actuated condition corresponding to the deployedcondition of the monopolar assembly;

FIG. 9 is a top view of the proximal end of a forceps similar to theforceps of FIG. 1, shown including another deployment mechanism providedin accordance with the present disclosure coupled to the forceps;

FIG. 10A is a top view of the deployment mechanism of FIG. 9 and theproximal end of the monopolar assembly, wherein the deployment mechanismis disposed in an un-actuated condition corresponding to the storagecondition of the monopolar assembly;

FIG. 10B is a side view of the deployment mechanism of FIG. 9 and theproximal end of the monopolar assembly, wherein the deployment mechanismis disposed in an actuated condition corresponding to the deployedcondition of the monopolar assembly;

FIG. 11 is a top view of the proximal end of a forceps similar to theforceps of FIG. 1, shown including another deployment mechanism providedin accordance with the present disclosure coupled to the forceps;

FIG. 12A is a top view of the deployment mechanism of FIG. 11 and theproximal end of the monopolar assembly, wherein the deployment mechanismis disposed in an un-actuated condition corresponding to the storagecondition of the monopolar assembly;

FIG. 12B is a side view of the deployment mechanism of FIG. 11 and theproximal end of the monopolar assembly, wherein the deployment mechanismis disposed in an actuated condition corresponding to the deployedcondition of the monopolar assembly;

FIG. 13A is a side view of the proximal end of another forceps similarto the forceps of FIG. 1, wherein a deployment mechanism is disposed inan un-actuated condition corresponding to the storage condition of themonopolar assembly;

FIG. 13B is a side view of the proximal end of the forceps of FIG. 13A,with a portion of the housing and internal components thereof removed tounobstructively illustrate the proximal end of the monopolar assemblyand the deployment mechanism for deploying the monopolar assembly,wherein the deployment mechanism is disposed in an un-actuated conditioncorresponding to the storage condition of the monopolar assembly;

FIG. 14A is a side view of the proximal end of the forceps of FIG. 13A,wherein the deployment mechanism is disposed in an actuated conditioncorresponding to the deployed condition of the monopolar assembly;

FIG. 14B is a side view of the proximal end of the forceps of FIG. 13A,with a portion of the housing and internal components thereof removed tounobstructively illustrate the proximal end of the monopolar assemblyand the deployment mechanism for deploying the monopolar assembly,wherein the deployment mechanism is disposed in an actuated conditioncorresponding to the deployed condition of the monopolar assembly;

FIG. 15A is a side view of the proximal end of the forceps of FIG. 13A,wherein the deployment mechanism is disposed in an actuated conditioncorresponding to the deployed condition of the monopolar assembly, witha reverser assembly engaged with the deployment mechanism; and

FIG. 15B is a side view of the proximal end of the forceps of FIG. 13A,with a portion of the housing and internal components thereof removed tounobstructively illustrate the proximal end of the monopolar assemblyand the deployment mechanism for deploying the monopolar assembly,wherein the deployment mechanism is disposed in an actuated conditioncorresponding to the deployed condition of the monopolar assembly, withthe reverser assembly engaged with the deployment mechanism.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring generally to FIG. 1, a forceps provided in accordance with thepresent disclosure is shown generally identified by reference numeral10. Forceps 10, as will be described below, is configured to operate inboth a bipolar mode, e.g., for grasping, treating, and/or dissectingtissue, and a monopolar mode, e.g., for treating and/or dissectingtissue. Although the present disclosure is shown and described withrespect to forceps 10, the aspects and features of the presentdisclosure are equally applicable for use with any suitable surgicalinstrument or portion(s) thereof for selectively actuating, moving,and/or deploying one or more assemblies and/or components of thesurgical instrument. Obviously, different connections and considerationsapply to each particular instrument and the assemblies and/or componentsthereof; however, the aspects and features of the present disclosureremain generally consistent regardless of the particular instrument,assemblies, and/or components provided.

Continuing with reference to FIG. 1, forceps 10 includes a housing 20, ahandle assembly 30, a trigger assembly 60, a rotating assembly 70, adeployment mechanism 80, an end effector assembly 100, and a monopolarassembly 200. Forceps 10 further includes a shaft 12 having a distal endconfigured to mechanically engage end effector assembly 100 and aproximal end that mechanically engages housing 20. Forceps 10 alsoincludes an electrosurgical cable 2 that connects forceps 10 to agenerator (not shown) or other suitable power source, although forceps10 may alternatively be configured as a battery powered instrument.Cable 2 includes wires (not shown) extending therethrough that havesufficient length to extend through shaft 12 in order to provideelectrical energy to at least one of the electrically-conductivesurfaces 112, 122 (FIG. 2) of jaw members 110, 120, respectively, of endeffector assembly 100, e.g., upon activation of activation switch 4 in abipolar mode. One or more of the wires (not shown) of cable 2 extendsthrough housing 20 in order to provide electrical energy to monopolarassembly 200, e.g., upon activation of activation switch 4 in amonopolar mode. Rotating assembly 70 is rotatable in either direction torotate end effector assembly 100 and monopolar assembly 200 relative tohousing 20. Housing 20 houses the internal working components of forceps10.

Referring to FIGS. 2-3, end effector assembly 100 is attached at thedistal end of shaft 12 and includes opposing jaw members 110, 120pivotably coupled to one another. Each of the jaw members 110 and 120includes a jaw body 111, 121 supporting the respectiveelectrically-conductive surface 112, 122, and a respectiveproximally-extending jaw flange 114, 124. Flanges 114, 124 are pivotablycoupled to one another to permit movement of jaw members 110, 120relative to one another between a spaced-apart position (FIG. 2) and anapproximated position (FIG. 3) for grasping tissue between surfaces 112,122. One or both of surfaces 112, 122 are adapted to connect to a sourceof energy (not explicitly shown), e.g., via the wires (not shown) ofcable 2 (FIG. 1), and are configured to conduct energy through tissuegrasped therebetween to treat, e.g., seal, tissue. More specifically, insome embodiments, end effector assembly 100 defines a bipolarconfiguration wherein surface 112 is charged to a first electricalpotential and surface 122 is charged to a second, different electricalpotential such that an electrical potential gradient is created forconducting energy between surfaces 112, 122 and through tissue graspedtherebetween for treating e.g., sealing, tissue. Activation switch 4(FIG. 1) is operably coupled between the source of energy (not shown)and surfaces 112, 122, thus allowing the user to selectively applyenergy to surfaces 112, 122 of jaw members 110, 120, respectively, ofend effector assembly 100 during a bipolar mode of operation.

End effector assembly 100 is designed as a unilateral assembly, i.e.,where jaw member 120 is fixed relative to shaft 12 and jaw member 110 ismovable relative to shaft 12 and fixed jaw member 120. However, endeffector assembly 100 may alternatively be configured as a bilateralassembly, i.e., where both jaw member 110 and jaw member 120 are movablerelative to one another and to shaft 12. In some embodiments, a knifechannel 125 may be defined within one or both of jaw members 110, 120 topermit reciprocation of a knife 164 (FIG. 3) therethrough, e.g., uponactuation of a trigger 62 of trigger assembly 60, to cut tissue graspedbetween jaw members 110, 120.

Referring to FIGS. 1-5, monopolar assembly 200 includes an insulativesleeve 210, an energizable rod member 220, and a proximal hub 230 (FIG.6). Insulative sleeve 210 is slidably disposed about shaft 12 and isselectively movable about and relative to shaft 12 and end effectorassembly 100 between a storage position (FIGS. 2 and 3), whereininsulative sleeve 210 is disposed proximally of end effector assembly100, and a deployed position (FIG. 5), wherein insulative sleeve 210 issubstantially disposed about end effector 100 so as to electricallyinsulate surfaces 112, 122 of jaw members 110, 120, respectively. Withmomentary reference to FIG. 6, proximal hub 230 is engaged to insulativesleeve 210 at the proximal end of insulative sleeve 210 and also engagesthe proximal end of energizable rod member 220. As detailed below,deployment mechanism 80 is selectively actuatable to translate proximalhub 230 along a translation axis through housing 20 and relative toshaft 12 to thereby move monopolar assembly 200 between its storage anddeployed conditions (FIGS. 3 and 5, respectively). The translation axismay be parallel with an axis defined by shaft 12, may be coaxial withthe axis of shaft 12, or may be non-parallel relative thereto.

Referring again to FIGS. 1-5, energizable rod member 220 extends fromproximal hub 230 (FIG. 6), through sleeve 210, and distally therefrom,ultimately defining an electrically-conductive distal tip 224.Energizable rod member 220 and, more specifically, distal tip 224thereof, functions as the active electrode of monopolar assembly 200.The one or more wires (not shown) extending from cable 2 through housing20 (see FIG. 1), are coupled to energizable rod member 220 to provideenergy to energizable rod member 220, e.g., upon actuation of activationswitch 4 (FIG. 1) in a monopolar mode, for treating tissue in amonopolar mode of operation. Energizable rod member 220 is movablebetween a storage position (FIG. 3) and a deployed position (FIG. 5). Inthe storage position (FIG. 3), distal tip 224 of rod member 220 isdisposed within an insulated groove 126 defined within flange 124 of jawmember 120, although other configurations are also contemplated, e.g.,distal tip 224 of rod member 220 may simply be positioned alongsideflange 124 in the storage condition. Insulated groove 126electrically-insulates distal tip 224 of rod member 220 fromelectrically-conductive surfaces 112, 122 of jaw members 110, 120,respectively, e.g., via insulated electrical leads (not explicitlyshown) and insulators disposed between surfaces 112, 122 and respectivejaw bodies 111, 121, and from surrounding tissue. Alternatively, distaltip 224 of rod member 220 may only be insulated from surface 112 (and isenergized to the same potential as surface 122 during use), may only beinsulated from surface 122 (and energized to the same potential assurface 112 during use), or may be capable of being energized to thesame potential as both surfaces 112, 122 during use.

In the deployed position (FIG. 5), distal tip 224 of rod member 220 ofmonopolar assembly 200 extends distally from end effector assembly 100and insulative sleeve 210, which substantially surrounds end effectorassembly 100. In this position, energy may be applied to distal tip 224of rod member 220 to treat tissue, e.g., via activation of activationswitch 4 (FIG. 1) in the monopolar mode. Distal tip 224 may behook-shaped (as shown), or may define any other suitable configuration,e.g., linear, ball, circular, angled, etc.

Insulative sleeve 210 and rod member 220 of monopolar assembly 200 arecoupled to one another via proximal hub 230 (FIG. 6), as will bedescribed in greater detail below, such that insulative sleeve 210 androd member 220 move in concert with one another between their storagepositions (FIGS. 2 and 3), collectively the storage condition ofmonopolar assembly 200, and their deployed positions (FIG. 5),collectively the deployed condition of monopolar assembly 200, uponselective translation of proximal hub 230 through housing 20 andrelative to shaft 12 (see FIG. 1).

With reference again to FIG. 1, handle assembly 30 includes a movablehandle 40 and a fixed handle 50. Fixed handle 50 is integrallyassociated with housing 20 and movable handle 40 is movable relative tofixed handle 50. Movable handle 40 is movable relative to fixed handle50 between an initial position, wherein movable handle 40 is spaced fromfixed handle 50, and a compressed position, wherein movable handle 40 iscompressed towards fixed handle 50. A biasing member (not shown) may beprovided to bias movable handle 40 towards the initial position. Movablehandle 40 is ultimately connected to a drive assembly (not shown)disposed within housing 20 that, together, mechanically cooperate toimpart movement of jaw members 110, 120 between the spaced-apartposition (FIG. 2), corresponding to the initial position of movablehandle 40, and the approximated position (FIG. 3), corresponding to thecompressed position of movable handle 40. Any suitable drive assemblyfor this purpose may be provided such as, for example, the driveassembly disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/052,871, filedon Oct. 14, 2013, the entire contents of which are incorporated hereinby reference.

Trigger assembly 60 includes trigger 62 that is operably coupled toknife 164 (FIG. 3). Trigger 62 of trigger assembly 60 is selectivelyactuatable to advance knife 164 (FIG. 3) from a retracted position,wherein knife 164 (FIG. 3) is disposed proximally of jaw members 110,120, to an extended position, wherein knife 164 (FIG. 3) extends atleast partially between jaw members 110, 120 and through knifechannel(s) 125 (FIG. 2) to cut tissue grasped between jaw members 110,120.

Detailed below with respect to FIGS. 6-15 are various embodiments ofdeployment mechanisms for selectively deploying monopolar assembly 200(or similar monopolar assemblies). To the extent consistent, the variousdeployment mechanisms, although described separately, may include any orall of the features of any or all of the other deployment mechanisms.

Referring to FIGS. 6-7B, deployment mechanism 80 is configured forselectively translating proximal hub 230 relative to housing 20 andshaft 12 (FIG. 1) to thereby transition monopolar assembly 200 betweenits storage condition (FIGS. 2 and 3) and its deployed condition (FIG.5). Deployment mechanism 80 generally includes an actuator member 82coupled to a ratchet and linkage assembly 86 for selectively deployingmonopolar assembly 200 in a push-push fashion, that is, where deploymentof monopolar assembly 200 is effected via a first actuation ofdeployment mechanism 80 and where retraction of monopolar assembly 200is effected via a second, subsequent actuation of deployment mechanism.

Actuator member 82 includes a rack 83, an actuator 84, and a post 85extending between and interconnecting rack 83 with actuator 84. Rack 83is disposed within housing 20, while post 85 extends through a slot 22(FIG. 1) defined within housing 20 to permit manipulation of actuator 84from the exterior of housing 20. Rack 83 further defines a plurality ofteeth 83 a disposed in longitudinal arrangement along rack 83. A biasingmember 83 b is coupled to rack 83 so as to bias rack proximally relativeto housing 20, thereby biasing actuator 84 towards the proximal end ofslot 22 (see FIG. 1). Although biasing member 83 b is shown coupled tothe distal end of rack 83 functioning as a compression spring, it isalso envisioned that biasing member 83 b be coupled to the proximal endof rack 83 to act as an extension spring, or that any other suitablebiasing member and/or configuration thereof be provided.

Ratchet and linkage assembly 86 includes a ratchet wheel 87 rotatablycoupled to housing 20 and a linkage bar 88 pivotably coupled to ratchetwheel 87 at an eccentric position, e.g., at a position offset from therotation axis of ratchet wheel 87. Ratchet wheel 87 includes a pluralityof teeth 87 a circumferentially disposed about the outer peripheralsurface thereof, and is positioned in meshed engagement with rack 83.More specifically, teeth 87 a of ratchet wheel 87 and teeth 83 a of rack83 are configured and oriented such that, upon distal translation ofrack 83 relative to ratchet wheel 87, teeth 83 a engage teeth 87 a tourge ratchet wheel 87 to rotate in a clockwise direction (as viewed fromthe orientation shown in FIGS. 6-7B) and such that, upon proximaltranslation of rack 83 relative to ratchet wheel 87, teeth 83 a camalong and over teeth 87 a without effecting rotation of ratchet wheel87. Thus, ratchet wheel 87 is an unlimited, one-way rotatable member inthat it is rotatable in one direction, e.g., clockwise direction (asviewed from the orientation shown in FIGS. 6-7B), and is not limited inits degree of rotation or number of rotations.

Continuing with reference to FIGS. 6-7B, linkage bar 88 includes a firstend 89 a that, as mentioned above, is pivotably coupled to ratchet wheel87 at an eccentric position relative to the rotation axis of ratchetwheel 87. As such, upon rotation of ratchet wheel 87, first end 89 a oflinkage bar 88 orbits about the rotation axis of ratchet wheel 87,urging linkage bar 88 more proximally or more distally, depending on theposition of first end 89 a of linkage bar 88. Linkage bar 88 furtherincludes a second end 89 b that is pivotably coupled to proximal hub 230of monopolar assembly 200. Thus, depending on the position of first end89 a of linkage bar 88 in orbit about the rotation axis of ratchet wheel87, rotation of ratchet wheel 87 effects either distal translation ofmonopolar assembly 200, e.g., towards the deployed condition, orproximal translation of monopolar assembly 200, e.g., towards thestorage condition. A dual biasing mechanism 87 b, e.g., one or moresprings, a clutch, or other suitable mechanism, is coupled to ratchetwheel 87 and provided to establish a bi-stable configuration of ratchetwheel 87; that is, where ratchet wheel 87 is biased towards both a firstrotational orientation, wherein first end 89 a of linkage bar 88 isdisposed in a proximal position “P” (FIG. 7A), and an opposite, secondrotational orientation, wherein first end 89 a of linkage bar 88 isdisposed in a distal position “D” (FIG. 7B). The use and operation ofdeployment mechanism 80 for selectively deploying and retractingmonopolar assembly 200 is detailed below.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3 and 7A, initially, actuator 84 is disposed at theproximal end of slot 22 defined within housing 20, first end 89 a oflinkage bar 88 is positioned proximally of the rotation axis of ratchetwheel 87 at proximal position “P,” and, accordingly, monopolar assembly200 is disposed in the storage condition. In order to deploy monopolarassembly 200, actuator 84 of actuator member 82 is translated distallyalong slot 22 and against the bias of biasing member 83 b towards thedistal end of slot 22. As actuator member 82 is translated in thismanner, teeth 83 a of rack 83 of actuator member 82 engage teeth 87 a ofratchet wheel 87 to urge ratchet wheel 87 to rotate in a clockwisedirection (as viewed from the orientation shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B),such that first end 89 a of linkage bar 88 is moved from the proximalposition “P” to the distal position “D.” Such movement of first end 89 aof linkage bar 88 urges linkage bar 88 distally which, in turn, urgesproximal hub 230 distally such that insulative sleeve 210 and rod member220 are transitioned from their respective storage positions (FIGS. 2and 3), through intermediate positions (FIG. 4), and ultimately, totheir respective deployed positions (FIG. 5).

As mentioned above, dual biasing mechanism 87 b establishes a bi-stableconfiguration of ratchet wheel 87. Thus, where an insufficient distaladvancement of actuator 84 is effected, e.g., less than 50% actuation,dual biasing mechanism 87 b operates to return ratchet wheel 87 to thefirst rotational orientation, wherein first end 89 a of linkage bar 88is disposed in the proximal position “P” (FIG. 7A) and monopolarassembly 200 is disposed in the storage condition (FIGS. 2 and 3). Onthe other hand, upon sufficient but less than full distal advancement ofactuator 84, e.g., greater than 50% actuation, dual biasing mechanism 87b operates to further urge ratchet wheel 87 to the second rotationalorientation, wherein first end 89 a of linkage bar 88 is disposed in thedistal position “D” (FIG. 7B) and monopolar assembly 200 is disposed inthe deployed condition (FIG. 5). Other suitable mechanisms for retainingand maintaining monopolar assembly 200 in the storage and/or deployedconditions are also contemplated, for example, detents, latches, etc.may be provided to stop and hold monopolar assembly 200 at 180 degreeintervals of rotation of ratchet wheel 87.

Once sufficiently actuated, actuator 84 may be released. Upon release ofactuator 84, biasing member 83 b urges rack 83 and actuator 84proximally while teeth 83 a cam along and over teeth 87 a such thatactuator member 82 is returned proximally to its initial position whileratchet wheel 87 is maintained in (or further rotated under bias of dualbiasing mechanism 87 b to) the second orientation, wherein first end 89a of linkage bar 88 is disposed in the distal position “D” (FIG. 7B) andmonopolar assembly 200 is disposed in the deployed condition (FIG. 5).

At this point, actuator 84 is disposed at the proximal end of slot 22defined within housing 20, ratchet wheel 87 is disposed in the secondrotational orientation, and monopolar assembly 200 is disposed in thedeployed condition. In order to return monopolar assembly 200 to thestorage condition, actuator 84 is once again translated distally alongslot 22 and against the bias of biasing member 83 b towards the distalend of slot 22. As actuator member 82 is translated distally, teeth 83 aof rack 83 of actuator member 82 engage teeth 87 a of ratchet wheel 87to urge ratchet wheel 87 to rotate in a clockwise direction (as viewedfrom the orientation shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B), such that first end 89 aof linkage bar 88 is moved from the distal position “D” back to theproximal position “P.” Such movement of first end 89 a of linkage bar 88pulls linkage bar 88 proximally which, in turn, pulls proximal hub 230proximally such that insulative sleeve 210 and rod member 220 aretransitioned from their respective deployed positions (FIG. 5), throughintermediate positions (FIG. 4), and ultimately, to their respectivestorage positions (FIGS. 2 and 3), e.g., the storage condition ofmonopolar assembly 200.

Once sufficiently actuated as detailed above, actuator 84 may bereleased. Upon release of actuator 84, biasing member 83 b urges rack 83and actuator 84 proximally while teeth 83 a cam along and over teeth 87a such that actuator member 82 is returned proximally to its initialposition while ratchet wheel 87 is maintained in (or further rotatedunder bias of dual biasing mechanism 87 b to) the first orientation,wherein first end 89 a of linkage bar 88 is disposed in the proximalposition “P” (FIG. 7A) and monopolar assembly 200 is disposed in thestorage condition (FIGS. 2 and 3). Re-deployment and retraction ofmonopolar assembly 200 may subsequently be achieved similarly asdetailed above.

Referring to FIGS. 1-7B, the use and operation of forceps 10 in both thebipolar mode, e.g., for grasping, treating (for example, sealing),and/or cutting tissue, and the monopolar mode, e.g., forelectrical/electromechanical tissue treatment, is described. Turning toFIGS. 1 and 2, with respect to use in the bipolar mode, monopolarassembly 200 is maintained in the storage condition, wherein insulativesleeve 210 is positioned proximally of jaw members 110, 120, and distaltip 224 of energizable rod member 220 is disposed within insulativegroove 126 of jaw flange 124 of jaw member 120. At this point, movablehandle 40 is disposed in its initial position such that jaw members 110,120 are disposed in the spaced-apart position. Further, trigger 62 oftrigger assembly 60 remains un-actuated such that knife 164 (FIG. 3)remains disposed in its retracted position.

Continuing with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, with jaw members 110, 120disposed in the spaced-apart position (FIG. 2), end effector assembly100 may be maneuvered into position such that tissue to be grasped,treated, e.g., sealed, and/or cut, is disposed between jaw members 110,120. Next, movable handle 40 is depressed, or pulled proximally relativeto fixed handle 50 such that jaw member 110 is pivoted relative to jawmember 120 from the spaced-apart position to the approximated positionto grasp tissue therebetween, as shown in FIG. 3. In this approximatedposition, energy may be supplied, e.g., via activation of switch 4, toplate 112 of jaw member 110 and/or plate 122 of jaw member 120 andconducted through tissue to treat tissue, e.g., to effect a tissue sealor otherwise treat tissue in the bipolar mode of operation. Once tissuetreatment is complete (or to cut untreated tissue), knife 164 (FIG. 3)may be deployed from within shaft 12 to between jaw members 110, 120,e.g., via actuation of trigger 62 of trigger assembly 60, to cut tissuegrasped between jaw members 110, 120.

When tissue cutting is complete, trigger 62 may be released to returnknife 164 (FIG. 3) to the retracted position. Thereafter, movable handle40 may be released or returned to its initial position such that jawmembers 110, 120 are moved back to the spaced-apart position (FIG. 2) torelease the treated and/or divided tissue.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3-7B, for operation of forceps 10 in themonopolar mode, jaw members 110, 120 are first moved to the approximatedposition, e.g., by depressing movable handle 40 relative to fixed handle50. A lockout mechanism for inhibiting deployment of monopolar assembly200 prior to movement of jaw members 110, 120 to the approximatedpositions may also be provided, such as the lockout mechanism describedin U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/276,465, filed on May 13, 2014,the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Oncethe approximated position has been achieved, monopolar assembly 200 maybe deployed by transitioning deployment mechanism 80 from theun-actuated condition to the actuated condition. More specifically, inorder to deploy monopolar assembly 200, actuator 84 is translateddistally along slot 22 from the position shown in FIG. 7A to theposition shown in FIG. 7B. This initial distal translation of actuator84, as detailed above, urges proximal hub 230 distally relative tohousing 20 and shaft 12 and, as a result, moves insulative sleeve 210and energizable rod member 220 distally from their respective storagepositions (FIGS. 2 and 3) to their respective deployed positions (FIG.5), e.g., the deployed condition of monopolar assembly 200.

With monopolar assembly 200 disposed in the deployed condition, actuator84 may be released such that actuator 84 is returned to its initial,proximal position while monopolar assembly 200 is maintained in thedeployed condition. Thereafter, activation switch 4 may be actuated tosupply energy to energizable rod member 220 to treat, e.g., dissect orotherwise treat, tissue. During application of energy to tissue viaenergizable rod member 220, forceps 10 may be moved relative to tissue,e.g., longitudinally, transversely, and/or radially, to facilitateelectromechanical treatment of tissue. At the completion of tissuetreatment, actuator 84 may be actuated a subsequent time, e.g., actuator84 may once again be translated distally along slot 22. Due to theconfiguration of deployment mechanism 80, this second, subsequentactuation of actuator 84 pulls proximal hub 230 proximally relative tohousing 20 and shaft 12 and, as a result, pulls insulative sleeve 210and energizable rod member 220 proximally from their respective deployedpositions (FIG. 5) back to their respective storage positions (FIGS. 2and 3), e.g., the storage condition of monopolar assembly 200. Once thestorage condition of monopolar assembly 200 has been achieved, actuator84 may be released, allowing actuator 84 to return to its initialposition at the proximal end of slot 22.

Turning now to FIGS. 8A and 8B, another embodiment of a deploymentmechanism for selectively deploying and retracting monopolar assembly200 in a push-push manner is shown designated as deployment mechanism380. Deployment mechanism 380 generally includes an actuator member 382coupled to a conveyor and linkage assembly 386. Actuator member 382includes a shaft 383, an actuator 384, and a post 385 extending betweenand interconnecting a first end of shaft 383 with actuator 384. Post 385is configured to extend through slot 22 of housing 20 (see FIG. 1) topermit manipulation of actuator 384 from the exterior of housing 20(FIG. 1). A biasing member 395 is coupled to shaft 383 so as to biasshaft 383 proximally relative to housing 20 (FIG. 1), although otherconfigurations are also contemplated.

Shaft 383 of actuator member 382 includes first and second hinge fingers390, 392 extending therefrom towards the second, opposite end of shaft383. Hinge fingers 390, 392 each include a first segment 391 a, 393 athat is fixedly engaged to shaft 383 and a second segment 391 b, 393 bthat is pivotably coupled to the respective first segments 391 a, 393 avia a one-way hinge 391 c, 393 c. One-way hinges 391 c, 393 c areconfigured to permit second segments 391 b, 393 b to pivot distally(counterclockwise from the orientation shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B)relative to first segments 391 a, 393 a from an aligned position,wherein the first and second segments 391 a, 391 b and 393 a, 393 b ofeach respective hinge finger 390, 392 cooperates to define a generallylinear configuration. One-way hinges 391 c, 393 c are further configuredto inhibit second segments 391 b, 393 b from pivoting proximally(clockwise from the orientation shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B) relative tofirst segments 391 a, 393 a from the aligned position. As an alternativeto providing one-way hinges 391 c, 393 c, fingers 390, 392 and thefingers 398 a, 398 b and 399 a, 399 b of conveyor and linkage assembly386 may define gear-teeth configurations similar to those of rack 83 andratchet wheel 87 (FIGS. 7A and 7B), e.g., wherein the teeth engage oneanother when moved in a first direction and cam over one another whenmoved in a second direction. Other suitable configurations are alsocontemplated.

Conveyor and linkage assembly 386 includes a conveyor 387 and a linkagebar 388. Conveyor 387 includes a belt 396 rotatable about a pair ofspaced-apart pivots 397. Similar to ratchet wheel 87 (FIGS. 7A and 7),belt 396 is an unlimited, one-way rotatable member in that it isrotatable in one direction, e.g., clockwise direction (as viewed fromthe orientation shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B), and is not limited in itsdegree of rotation or number of rotations. Two pairs of spaced-apartfingers 398 a, 398 b and 399 a, 399 b are disposed on belt 396 atopposing locations. Linkage bar 388 is pivotably coupled to one of thefingers, e.g., finger 398 b, at a first end 389 a of linkage bar 388 andis movable upon rotation of belt 396 between a proximal position “PP”(FIG. 8A) and distal position “DD” (FIG. 8B). Second end 389 b oflinkage bar 388 is pivotably coupled to proximal hub 230 of monopolarassembly 200. Thus, upon rotation of belt 396 about pivots 397, firstend 389 a of linkage bar 388 is orbited in an oval-shaped orbit betweenthe proximal position “PP” and the distal position “DD,” urging linkagebar 388 more proximally or more distally, depending on the position offirst end 389 a of linkage bar 388. Proximal or distal movement oflinkage bar 388, in turn, effects either distal translation of monopolarassembly 200, e.g., towards the deployed condition, or proximaltranslation of monopolar assembly 200, e.g., towards the storagecondition. The use and operation of deployment mechanism 380 forselectively deploying and retracting monopolar assembly 200 is detailedbelow.

Continuing with reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B, initially, actuator 384 isdisposed at the proximal end of slot 22 defined within housing 20 (seeFIG. 1), first end 389 a of linkage bar 388 is disposed at the proximalposition “PP” (FIG. 8A) and, accordingly, monopolar assembly 200 isdisposed in the storage condition (FIGS. 2 and 3). In order to deploymonopolar assembly 200, actuator 384 is translated distally against thebias of biasing member 383 b. As actuator 384 is translated in thismanner, hinge fingers 390, 392 contact fingers 398 b, 398 a,respectively, to urge belt 396 to rotate in a clockwise direction (asviewed from the orientation shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B), such that firstend 389 a of linkage bar 388 is moved from the proximal position “PP” tothe distal position “DD” (FIG. 8B). Such movement of first end 389 a oflinkage bar 388 urges linkage bar 388 distally which, in turn, urgesproximal hub 230 distally such that monopolar assembly 200 istransitioned from the storage condition (FIGS. 2 and 3) to the deployedcondition (FIG. 5).

Once actuator 384 has been fully actuated to transition monopolarassembly 200 from the storage condition (FIGS. 2 and 3) to the deployedcondition (FIG. 5), actuator 384 may be released. Upon release ofactuator 384, biasing member 383 b urges shaft 383 and actuator 384proximally. As shaft 383 is translated proximally, second segments 391b, 393 b of hinge fingers 390, 392 contact fingers 399 b, 398 b and areurged to pivot to permit hinge fingers 390, 392 to pass over fingers 399b, 398 b without effecting rotation of belt 396. Thus, actuator member382 is returned to its initial position, while first end 389 a oflinkage bar 388 is maintained in the distal position “DD” correspondingto the deployed condition of monopolar assembly 200.

At this point, actuator 384 is once again disposed in its initialposition and monopolar assembly 200 is disposed in the deployedcondition. In order to return monopolar assembly 200 to the storagecondition, actuator 384 is once again actuated, e.g., translateddistally against the bias of biasing member 383 b. As actuator 384 istranslated distally, hinge fingers 390, 392 contact fingers 399 b, 399a, respectively, to urge belt 396 to rotate in a clockwise direction (asviewed from the orientation shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B), such that firstend 389 a of linkage bar 388 is moved from the distal position “DD” backto the proximal position “PP.” Such movement of first end 389 a oflinkage bar 388 pulls linkage bar 388 proximally which, in turn, pullsproximal hub 230 proximally such that monopolar assembly 200 istransitioned from the deployed condition (FIG. 5) back to the storagecondition (FIGS. 2 and 3).

Once the second, or subsequent actuation of actuator 384 has beeneffected to return monopolar assembly 200 to the storage condition(FIGS. 2 and 3), actuator 384 may be released. Upon release of actuator384, biasing member 383 b urges shaft 383 and actuator 384 proximallywhile second segments 391 b, 393 b of hinge fingers 390, 392 contactfingers 398 a, 399 a and are urged to pivot to permit hinge fingers 390,392 to pass over fingers 398 a, 399 a without effecting rotation of belt396. Re-deployment and retraction of monopolar assembly 200 maysubsequently be achieved similarly as detailed above. Further, the useand operation of forceps 10 (FIG. 1) with deployment mechanism 380 issimilar to that detailed above with respect to deployment mechanism 80(FIG. 1). Alternatively, belt 396 may be driven by a gear and ratchetmechanism similar to that detailed above with respect to FIGS. 6-7B.

Turning now to FIGS. 9-10B, another embodiment of a deployment mechanismfor selectively deploying and retracting monopolar assembly 200 in apush-push manner is shown designated as deployment mechanism 480.Deployment mechanism 480 is shown configured for use with a forceps 10′,which is similar to and may include any or all of the features offorceps 10 (FIG. 1). Forceps 10′ differs from forceps 10 (FIG. 1) in theconfiguration of housing 20′. More specifically, housing 20′ of forceps10′ includes first and second longitudinally-extending slots 22 a′, 22b′ defined therethrough. Although slots 22 a′, 22 b′ are shown disposedon opposite sides of housing 20′, it is envisioned that slots 22 a′ 22b′ may be provided at any suitable location on housing 20′.

Deployment mechanism 480 includes first and second actuator members 482a, 482 b extending through respective first and second slots 22 a′, 22b′ of housing 20′. Each actuator member 482 a, 482 b includes a rack 483a, 483 b, an actuator 484 a, 484 b, and a post 485 a, 485 b that extendsbetween and interconnects the first end of the respective racks 483 a,483 b with the respective actuator 484 a, 484 b. Posts 485 a, 485 bextend through respective slots 22 a′, 22 b′ of housing 20′ to permitmanipulation of actuators 484 a, 484 b from the exterior of housing 20′.Racks 483 a, 483 b each define a plurality of engagement teeth 486 a,486 b, respectively, extending longitudinally therealong. One of theracks, e.g., rack 483 a, is engaged to proximal hub 230 of monopolarassembly 200 at the second end of the rack 483 a.

Deployment mechanism 480 further includes a gear 487 that is rotatablycoupled to housing 20′ (FIG. 9) via a pin 488. Gear 487 includes aplurality of teeth 489 circumferentially disposed about the outerperipheral surface thereof. Gear 487 is interdisposed between racks 483a, 483 b and positioned such that teeth 489 are disposed in meshedengagement with teeth 486 a of rack 483 a and teeth 486 b of rack 483 b.As a result of this configuration, translation of rack 483 a in a firstdirection effects rotation of gear 487 and corresponding translation ofrack 483 b in a second, opposite direction, and vice versa. Morespecifically, with monopolar assembly 200 coupled to rack 483 a,actuator 484 a may be translated distally along slot 22 a′ of housing20′ to urge monopolar assembly 200 distally towards the deployedcondition. On the other hand, actuator 484 b may be translated distallyalong slot 22 b′ of housing 20′ to pull monopolar assembly 200proximally towards the retracted condition. That is, distal actuation ofactuator member 482 a effects deployment of monopolar assembly 200,while distal actuation of actuator member 482 b effects retraction ofmonopolar assembly 200. The use and operation of forceps 10′ withdeployment mechanism 480 is otherwise similar to that detailed abovewith respect to deployment mechanism 80 and forceps 10 (FIG. 1).Alternatively, deployment mechanism 480 may be replaced with abelt-based system similar to that detailed above with respect todeployment mechanism 380 (FIGS. 8A and 8B) with actuator member 482 a,482 b attached to opposing sides of the belt.

Turning now to FIGS. 11-12B, another embodiment of a deploymentmechanism for selectively deploying and retracting monopolar assembly200 in a push-push manner is shown designated as deployment mechanism580. Deployment mechanism 580 is shown configured for use with forceps10′ and generally includes a pivotable actuator member 582 coupled to alinkage bar 588. Actuator member 582 defines a first end 583 thatextends through slot 22 a′ of housing 20′, a second end 584 that extendsthrough slot 22 b′ of housing 20′, and an intermediate portion 585 thatextends between and interconnects the first and second ends 583, 584 ofactuator member 582. Intermediate portion 585 of actuator member 582 isrotatably coupled to housing 20′ via a pin 586. First and second ends583, 584 of actuator member 582 are selectively manipulatable from theexterior of housing 20′ to rotate actuator member 582 about pin 586. Ascan be appreciated, distal urging of first end 583 effects proximalmovement of second end 584, and vice versa, due to the positioning offirst and second ends 583, 584 of actuator member 582 on opposite sidesof pin 586.

Linkage bar 588 includes a first end 589 a that is pivotably coupled toactuator member 582 at a position offset relative to pin 586, e.g.,between pin 586 and first end 583 of actuator member 582. Second end 589b of linkage bar 588 is pivotably coupled to proximal hub 230 ofmonopolar assembly 200. As a result of this configuration, distaltranslation of first end 583 of actuator member 582 along slot 22 a′urges linkage bar 588 distally, thereby urging monopolar assembly 200towards the deployed condition. On the other hand, distal translation ofsecond end 584 of actuator member 582 along slot 22 b′ pulls linkage bar588 proximally (since linkage bar 588 is coupled to actuator member 582on an opposite side of pin 586 as compared to second end 584 of actuatormember 582), thereby pulling monopolar assembly 200 proximally towardsthe retracted condition. In other words, distal actuation of first end583 of actuator member 582 effects deployment of monopolar assembly 200,while distal actuation of second end 584 of actuator member 582 effectsretraction of monopolar assembly 200. The use and operation of forceps10′ with deployment mechanism 580 is otherwise similar to that detailedabove with respect to deployment mechanism 80 and forceps 10 (FIG. 1).

Turning to FIGS. 13A-15B, another embodiment of a deployment mechanismis shown designated as deployment mechanism 680. Deployment mechanism680 is shown configured for use with a forceps 10″, which is similar toand may include any or all of the features of forceps 10 (FIG. 1).Forceps 10″ differs from forceps 10 (FIG. 1) in the configuration ofhousing 20″ and the configuration of monopolar assembly 200″. Morespecifically, housing 20″ of forceps 10″ includes a slot 22 a″ disposedon either (or both) side of housing 20″ and an aperture 22 b″ definedthrough an upper portion of housing 20″, although other positions ofslot(s) 22 a″ and/or aperture 22 b″ are also contemplated. Monopolarassembly 200″ is similar to monopolar assembly 200 (FIGS. 2-5) andgenerally includes an insulative sleeve 210″, an energizable rod member220″, and a proximal hub 230″. Monopolar assembly 200″ differs frommonopolar assembly 200 (FIGS. 2-5) in that proximal hub 230″ ofmonopolar assembly 200″ defines an elongated configuration including aplurality of ratchet teeth 232″ extending longitudinally therealong.

Deployment mechanism 680 includes a plunger assembly 682, an actuatorassembly 684, and a fixed gear 686. Fixed gear 686 is rotatably mountedwithin housing 20″. More specifically, fixed gear 686 is disposed inmeshed engagement with ratchet teeth 232″ of proximal hub 230″ ofmonopolar assembly 200″. As such, rotation of fixed gear 686 in acounterclockwise direction (from the orientation shown in FIGS. 13B,14B, and 15B) urges proximal hub 230″ and, thus, monopolar assembly 200″distally towards the deployed condition, while rotation of fixed gear686 in a clockwise direction (from the orientation shown in FIGS. 13B,14B, and 15B) urges proximal hub 230″ and, thus, monopolar assembly 200″proximally towards the storage condition.

Actuator assembly 684 includes a rotatable actuator 685 a, a pin 685 b,a first gear 685 c, and a biasing member 685 d. Pin 685 b extendsthrough slot 22 a″ defined within housing 20″ and engages theexternally-disposed rotatable actuator 685 a with theinternally-disposed first gear 685 c. As such, rotation of rotatableactuator 685 a effects corresponding rotation of first gear 685 c. Pin685 b is slidable through slot 22 a″ and relative to housing 20″.Further, biasing member 685 d is coupled between pin 685 b and housing20″ to bias pin 685 b distally such that rotatable actuator 685 a isbiased towards the distal end of slot 22 a″ and such that first gear 685c is biased distally into meshed engagement with fixed gear 686. Withfirst gear 685 c engaged with fixed gear 686, rotatable actuator 685 amay be actuated, e.g., rotated in a clockwise direction (from theorientation shown in FIGS. 13A, 14A, and 15A), to rotate fixed gear 686in a counterclockwise direction to thereby deploy monopolar assembly200″.

Plunger assembly 682 includes a shaft 683 a, a depressible actuator 683b, and a second gear 683 c. Shaft 683 a extends through aperture 22 b″of housing 20″ and includes depressible actuator 683 b engaged at theexternally-disposed end thereof and second gear 683 c rotatably coupledat the internally-disposed end thereof. Depressible actuator 683 b isconfigured to be manipulated between an extended position (FIGS.13A-14B), wherein depressible actuator 683 b is spaced-apart fromhousing 20″, and a depressed position (FIGS. 15A and 15B), whereindepressible actuator 683 b is positioned adjacent housing 20″. Movementof depressible actuator 683 b, in turn, moves second gear 683 c into orout of engagement between first gear 685 c and fixed gear 686. Morespecifically, with depressible actuator 683 b disposed in the extendedposition, first gear 685 c is directly engaged with fixed gear 686 suchthat rotatable actuator 685 a may be actuated to deploy monopolarassembly 200″. On the other hand, when depressible actuator 683 b ismoved to the depressed position, second gear 683 c is urged intoposition between first gear 685 c and fixed gear 686, e.g., via urgingactuator assembly 684 proximally along slot 22 a″ against the bias ofbiasing member 685 d. In this configuration, second gear 683 c serves asa reverser such that subsequent actuation of rotatable actuator 685 a inthe same manner as above serves to rotate first gear 685 c in aclockwise direction (from the orientation shown in FIGS. 13A, 14A, and15A), second gear 683 c in a counterclockwise direction, and fixed gear686 in a clockwise direction, to thereby retract monopolar assembly200″.

In use, initially, as shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, depressible actuator683 b is disposed in the extended position and actuator assembly 684 isbiased distally via biasing member 685 d such that first gear 685 c isengaged with fixed gear 686. In order to deploy monopolar assembly 200″from this position, rotatable actuator 685 a is rotated in a clockwisedirection sufficiently so as to urge proximal hub 230″ distally to thedeployed condition of monopolar assembly 200″.

Deployment mechanism 680 is shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B corresponding tothe deployed condition of monopolar assembly 200″. In order to retractmonopolar assembly 200″ from this position, depressible actuator 683 bis first moved to the depressed position, shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B,wherein second gear 683 c is interdisposed between first gear 685 c andfixed gear 686. Once depressible actuator 683 b is disposed in thedepressed position, sufficient actuation of rotatable actuator 685 a inthe same manner as the initial actuation may be effected to urgeproximal hub 230″ proximally to the storage condition of monopolarassembly 200″. For re-deployment, depressible actuator 683 b is movedback to the extended position (FIGS. 13A and 13B), and rotatableactuator 685 a is re-actuated, similarly as above. The use and operationof forceps 10″ with deployment mechanism 680 is otherwise similar tothat detailed above with respect to deployment mechanism 80 and forceps10 (FIG. 1). Other configurations utilizing a reversing gear are alsocontemplated such as those utilizing various fixed and moving gearsand/or fixed and moving gear racks, and/or those utilizing translatingand/or rotating input motions.

The various embodiments disclosed herein may also be configured to workwith robotic surgical systems and what is commonly referred to as“Telesurgery.” Such systems employ various robotic elements to assistthe surgeon in the operating room and allow remote operation (or partialremote operation) of surgical instrumentation. Various robotic arms,gears, cams, pulleys, electric and mechanical motors, etc. may beemployed for this purpose and may be designed with a robotic surgicalsystem to assist the surgeon during the course of an operation ortreatment. Such robotic systems may include remotely steerable systems,automatically flexible surgical systems, remotely flexible surgicalsystems, remotely articulating surgical systems, wireless surgicalsystems, modular or selectively configurable remotely operated surgicalsystems, etc.

The robotic surgical systems may be employed with one or more consolesthat are next to the operating theater or located in a remote location.In this instance, one team of surgeons or nurses may prep the patientfor surgery and configure the robotic surgical system with one or moreof the instruments disclosed herein while another surgeon (or group ofsurgeons) remotely control the instruments via the robotic surgicalsystem. As can be appreciated, a highly skilled surgeon may performmultiple operations in multiple locations without leaving his/her remoteconsole which can be both economically advantageous and a benefit to thepatient or a series of patients.

The robotic arms of the surgical system are typically coupled to a pairof master handles by a controller. The handles can be moved by thesurgeon to produce a corresponding movement of the working ends of anytype of surgical instrument (e.g., end effectors, graspers, knifes,scissors, etc.) which may complement the use of one or more of theembodiments described herein. The movement of the master handles may bescaled so that the working ends have a corresponding movement that isdifferent, smaller or larger, than the movement performed by theoperating hands of the surgeon. The scale factor or gearing ratio may beadjustable so that the operator can control the resolution of theworking ends of the surgical instrument(s).

The master handles may include various sensors to provide feedback tothe surgeon relating to various tissue parameters or conditions, e.g.,tissue resistance due to manipulation, cutting or otherwise treating,pressure by the instrument onto the tissue, tissue temperature, tissueimpedance, etc. As can be appreciated, such sensors provide the surgeonwith enhanced tactile feedback simulating actual operating conditions.The master handles may also include a variety of different actuators fordelicate tissue manipulation or treatment further enhancing thesurgeon's ability to mimic actual operating conditions.

From the foregoing and with reference to the various drawing figures,those skilled in the art will appreciate that certain modifications canalso be made to the present disclosure without departing from the scopeof the same. While several embodiments of the disclosure have been shownin the drawings, it is not intended that the disclosure be limitedthereto, as it is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope asthe art will allow and that the specification be read likewise.Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting,but merely as exemplifications of particular embodiments. Those skilledin the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spiritof the claims appended hereto.

What is claimed is:
 1. A surgical instrument, comprising: a housing; anenergizable member movable relative to the housing between a storageposition and a deployed position; and a deployment mechanism coupled tothe housing and the energizable member and configured to selectivelymove the energizable member between the storage position and thedeployed position, the deployment mechanism including: a one-wayrotatable member coupled to the housing and rotatable relative to thehousing about at least one pivot; a linkage having a first end and asecond end, the first end of the linkage coupled to the one-wayrotatable member at a position offset from the at least one pivot andthe second end of the linkage coupled to the energizable member suchthat a revolution of the one-way rotatable member about the at least onepivot moves the energizable member from the storage position to thedeployed condition and back to the storage position; and an actuatordisposed on the housing and coupled to the one-way rotatable member, theactuator selectively actuatable from an un-actuated state to an actuatedstate, wherein each actuation of the actuator effects a partialrevolution of the one-way rotatable member such that each actuation ofthe actuator moves the energizable member from one of the storageposition or the retracted position to the other of the storage positionor the retracted position.
 2. The surgical instrument according to claim1, wherein the deployment mechanism further includes a biasing memberconfigured to bias the actuator towards the un-actuated state.
 3. Thesurgical instrument according to claim 1, wherein the actuator isengaged with the one-way rotatable member during actuation of theactuator to effect rotation of the one-way rotatable member, and whereinthe actuator is disengaged from the one-way rotatable member duringreturn of the actuator from the actuated state to the un-actuated statesuch that the one-way rotatable member is maintained in position duringthe return of the actuator.
 4. The surgical instrument according toclaim 1, wherein the one-way rotatable member includes a ratchet wheelhaving a plurality of teeth circumferentially disposed about an outerperiphery thereof and wherein the actuator includes a rack having aplurality of teeth extending longitudinally therealong.
 5. The surgicalinstrument according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of teeth of therack are configured to engage the plurality of teeth of the ratchetwheel upon actuation of the actuator from the actuated state to theun-actuated state and wherein the plurality of teeth of the rack areconfigured to cam about the plurality of teeth of the ratchet wheel uponreturn of the actuator from the actuated state to the un-actuated state.6. The surgical instrument according to claim 1, wherein the one-wayrotatable member includes a conveyor belt rotatable about a pair ofspaced-apart pivots, the belt including a plurality of fingers disposedthereon, and wherein the actuator includes a shaft having at least onefinger extending therefrom.
 7. The surgical instrument according toclaim 6, wherein the at least one finger of the shaft includes a hingedportion configured to engage one of the plurality of fingers of theconveyor belt upon actuation of the actuator from the actuated state tothe un-actuated state, and wherein the hinged portion of the at leastone finger of the shaft is configured to pivot out of the way of theplurality of fingers of the belt upon return of the actuator from theactuated state to the un-actuated state.
 8. The surgical instrumentaccording to claim 1, wherein a full revolution of the one-way rotatablemember about the at least one pivot moves the energizable member fromthe storage position to the deployed condition and back to the storageposition, and wherein each actuation of the actuator effects a one-halfrevolution of the one-way rotatable member such that each actuation ofthe actuator moves the energizable member from one of the storageposition or the retracted position to the other of the storage positionor the retracted positions.
 9. The surgical instrument according toclaim 1, further including an insulative member movable with theenergizable member and relative to the housing between the storageposition and the deployed position, wherein the deployment mechanism isconfigured to selectively move both the energizable member andinsulative member between the storage position and the deployedposition.
 10. A surgical instrument, comprising: a housing; a shaftextending distally from the housing; an end effector assembly disposedat a distal end of the shaft; a deployable assembly including anenergizable member and an insulative member, the deployable assemblymovable relative to the end effector assembly between a storage positionand a deployed position; and a deployment mechanism coupled to thehousing and the deployable assembly and configured to selectively movethe deployable assembly between the storage position and the deployedposition, the deployment mechanism including: a one-way rotatable membercoupled to the housing and rotatable relative to the housing about atleast one pivot; a linkage having a first end and a second end, thefirst end of the linkage coupled to the one-way rotatable member at aposition offset from the at least one pivot and the second end of thelinkage coupled to the deployable assembly such that a revolution of theone-way rotatable member about the at least one pivot moves thedeployable assembly from the storage position to the deployed conditionand back to the storage position; and an actuator disposed on thehousing and coupled to the one-way rotatable member, the actuatorselectively actuatable from an un-actuated state to an actuated state,wherein each actuation of the actuator effects a partial revolution ofthe one-way rotatable member such that each actuation of the actuatormoves the deployable assembly from one of the storage position or theretracted position to the other of the storage position or the retractedposition, wherein the actuator is engaged with the one-way rotatablemember during actuation of the actuator to effect rotation of theone-way rotatable member, and wherein the actuator is disengaged fromthe one-way rotatable member during return of the actuator from theactuated state to the un-actuated state such that the one-way rotatablemember is maintained in position during the return of the actuator. 11.The surgical instrument according to claim 10, wherein the deploymentmechanism further includes a biasing member configured to bias theactuator towards the un-actuated state.
 12. The surgical instrumentaccording to claim 10, wherein the one-way rotatable member includes aratchet wheel having a plurality of teeth circumferentially disposedabout an outer periphery thereof and wherein the actuator includes arack having a plurality of teeth extending longitudinally therealong.13. The surgical instrument according to claim 12, wherein the pluralityof teeth of the rack are configured to engage the plurality of teeth ofthe ratchet wheel upon actuation of the actuator from the actuated stateto the un-actuated state and wherein the plurality of teeth of the rackare configured to cam about the plurality of teeth of the ratchet wheelupon return of the actuator from the actuated state to the un-actuatedstate.
 14. The surgical instrument according to claim 10, wherein theone-way rotatable member includes a conveyor belt rotatable about a pairof spaced-apart pivots, the belt including a plurality of fingersdisposed thereon, and wherein the actuator includes a shaft having atleast one finger extending therefrom.
 15. The surgical instrumentaccording to claim 14, wherein the at least one finger of the shaftincludes a hinged portion configured to engage one of the plurality offingers of the conveyor belt upon actuation of the actuator from theactuated state to the un-actuated state, and wherein the hinged portionof the at least one finger of the shaft is configured to pivot out ofthe way of the plurality of fingers of the belt upon return of theactuator from the actuated state to the un-actuated state.
 16. Thesurgical instrument according to claim 10, wherein a full revolution ofthe one-way rotatable member about the at least one pivot moves thedeployable assembly from the storage position to the deployed conditionand back to the storage position, and wherein each actuation of theactuator effects a one-half revolution of the one-way rotatable membersuch that each actuation of the actuator moves the deployable assemblyfrom one of the storage position or the retracted position to the otherof the storage position or the retracted positions.
 17. The surgicalinstrument according to claim 10, wherein the end effector assemblyincludes first and second jaw members configured to treat tissue in abipolar mode of operation.
 18. The surgical instrument according toclaim 17, wherein, in the deployed position, the insulative member isdisposed about the jaw members and the energizable member extendsdistally from the jaw members for treating tissue in a monopolar mode ofoperation.